Jazz.
CH OTCH Plum Perfect’s All That Jazz UDX5 OM8 RN AXP AJP—such a journey! Training and handling Jazz have been the most fun experiences of my adult life; they have also been the most challenging! Dee Dee and many of her students suggest that obedience showing is easy—au contraire!
Although Team Jazz always trained conscientiously, earning an OTCH wasn’t on our list early on. We selected particular shows based on interest, convenience, and a busy life. We also took time to train and show in Agility. A baby brother joined our family. And then one day Jazz was turning 8; where had the time gone? The company I keep were counting points and earning OTCHs. Time to get serious, Jazz.
I was so naïve! “If we simply show more often, the points will come!” Training issues became more pronounced with more frequent showing. Jazz morphed into Wonder Dog; I always wondered what he was going to do next! My team’s managing partner had a stubby tail, a fuzzy coat, and always the last word! The more I learned the less I knew! Thank you, Dee Dee, for sharing (with amazing patience!) your expertise and incredible insight with us. Together we navigated the art of dog training. Dee Dee helped me better understand the yin-yang, the balance between structured and spontaneous, asking/requiring, predictable/surprise, the details/the gestalt. There was always something to work on; every day of the journey was the journey!
I have grown so much. I learned a lot about myself—yes, I can drive 14 hours solo to a dog show. I visited locations I had never heard of before. I met and enjoyed the company of many friendly and supportive folks—and dealt with a few not so nice. I learned to advocate for our team with a smile on my face.
Thank you, Dee Dee and Billy, for your support in achieving our goals and dreaming big with us! I am so proud to be a part of your elite OTCH students!